For those interested in real estate investments, now is a very good time to look at Panama. Although prices in Panama have risen somewhat in the last couple of years, compared to Costa Rica, Panama is ridiculously cheap. While there are a few risks involved in buying coastal property in Panama, with careful research and good legal assistance, all of these risks can be nullified. The primary issue in buying coastal property in Panama is the aspect of titling. Until 2004, all property within 200 meters of the high tide line was considered national land, and could not be titled, only rights of possession were issued. With titled property, there is ironclad protection of ownership, regardless of the nationality of the owner. ROP property however, requires a great deal of diligence to protect ownership, especially in the case of an absentee owner. Now, property can be titled to within 12 or 22 meters of the high tide, depending on the area. The general process involves buying the rights of possession from the person currently holding this land, then solicit the National Government to buy the national land. Only Panamanian nationals or corporations can buy national land. However, a Panamanian corporation can easily be set up, and we can recommend a reliable firm in Panama City, fluent in English, to take care of this. Once title has been obtained on the property, it is completely transferable, and protection of ownership is guaranteed. Listed on the following pages are a few opportunities in the Santa Catalina area. Feel free to send any questions, and we will reply as quickly as possible.
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